The best camping in Lowden State Park, IL

Name: Lowden State Park
Address: Lowden State Park
Rating: 5

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Explore where legendary Chief Black Hawk once lived with his people.

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lowden State Park adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Lowden State Park

Lowden Campground

1. Lowden Campground

100%

(2)

Campground in Lowden State Park · 89 sites · Tents, RVs

Basketball, volleyball and baseball facilities are just one small bonus of staying at Lowden Campground

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Top-rated campsites near Lowden State Park

Crooked Creek Ranch

1. Crooked Creek Ranch

100%

(11)

9.3mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Wooded acres. Driving range. Starry sky's. Walking trails. Creek. Sledding hill. Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, fox, turkey, beaver, birds, to name a few. Abundant wood for fires.

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Goatland

2. Goatland

99%

(166)

31mi from Lowden State Park · 4 sites

Fifteen acre livestock farm in NW IL with a creek and pond. We raise sheep, goats, chickens, guineas, peafowl, fancy pheasants, Tom's pet trout, and two ridiculous dogs. (But we no longer raise cattle, or keep a donkey.) If you like nature, and animals, up close, this is the spot. You can respectfully interact with the livestock, or not, as you choose. We're pretty hands off, but are happy to talk about the animals if you ask. We welcome and are a safe space for LGBTQ+ visitors. We also are familiar with, and are usually able to accommodate, ND/ASD sensory concerns.

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The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

3. The Lichen Pod - 26' 1974 Argosy

100%

(20)

33mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site

+ The Lichen Pod is only large enough for single campers!+ Learn more about this land: The southern Driftless Area is one of rolling hills of farmland, prairie and woodlands. The camper is parked near a line of pines with both beautiful light and fresh breezes, located on a working ecological farm. Land is stewarded by an ecologist who grows food and medicinal plants, tends ducks, chickens, quail and honey bees. Agroecological methods used in growing. Woodland, grassland and prairie habitat creation and restoration on going. Learn more about this land: Explore the southern Driftless Region with prairie and woodlands. Lichen Pod trailer is next to allée of eastern white pine and several mature apple trees. Enjoy late morning sun and afternoon shade. Wide open skies and viewing platforms for stargazing. Mown paths for walking through prairie and grasslands. Jane Adams bike path 5 minute ride away for many hours of biking., Bikes available free for use.  Canoe and Kayaks for rent to put in the Pecatonica or Sugar Rivers. Shared barn kitchen with propane cooking surface, cooking utensils and pans, toaster, cooking oil, and myriad cooking ingredients. Two fire circles for building fires. Firewood bundles and fresh eggs available for sale. Boats available to rent if you'd like to paddle a river, wood sauna can be fired up for a fee.

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Pachamanka Prairie + Woodland

4. Pachamanka Prairie + Woodland

100%

(11)

33mi from Lowden State Park · 3 sites

Land is stewarded by an ecologist who grows food and medicinal plants, tends ducks, chickens, quail and honey bees. Agroecological methods used in growing. Woodland, grassland and prairie habitat creation and restoration on going. Learn more about this land: Explore the southern Driftless Region with prairie and woodlands. Pitch your tent between an allée of eastern white pine and several  mature apple trees and enjoy late morning sun and afternoon shade. Wide open skies and a viewing platform for stargazing. Mown paths for walking through prairie and grasslands. Jane Adams bike path 5 minute ride away for many hours of biking., Bikes available free for use.  Canoe and Kayaks for rent to put in the Pecatonica or Sugar Rivers. Shared barn kitchen with propane cooking surface, cooking utensils and pans, toaster, cooking oil, and myriad cooking ingredients. Two fire circles for building fires. Firewood bundles and fresh eggs available for sale. Boats available to rent if you'd like to paddle a river, wood sauna can be fired up for a fee.

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Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

5. Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

100%

(11)

33mi from Lowden State Park · 28 sites · Tents, RVs

These campsites are located along the lower half of our property and are tucked into fun little sites bordering our off road trail built for Jeeps, Broncos, and other similar off road vehicles. These are primitive style sites and cell phones likely will not work on any of our sites. This is truly a way to get away and just disconnect for a while! There is a VERY steep entrance into the camping area and a small water crossing is also necessary. Low clearance vehicles, cars, campers/trailers, and RV's will not be able to access the zone. If you'd like to camp at one of our sites and have a vehicle that won't qualify -- we do have friendlier parking but it will require quite a hike to get to your site or we can offer you a ride as well.

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Avalon Unity Garden

6. Avalon Unity Garden

97%

(16)

37mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

This garden is intended to help people connect to Mother Earth. There is room for yoga or meditation with the plants. You can sleep in a tent, or your vehicle. It has a walkable spiral, an 18’ Mother Earth sculpture, an earth lodge for ceremonies and a hexagon swing area. It’s located in a very small farm community. We are about a mile from the Hennepin canal where you can walk, fish or canoe.

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Papa's Park

7. Papa's Park

100%

(101)

37mi from Lowden State Park · 3 sites

Our location is Northern Illinois's best kept secret. Conveniently located 4 miles East of I90/39 and one mile South of the Illinois/Wisconsin border. We're about an hour from the Chicago Suburbs, 30 minutes from Lake Geneva, 45 minutes from Madison, and 60 minutes from Milwaukee. Our rural setting is a great place to relax, bicycle on back country roads, visit local wineries. Be sure to stop back for a visit to enjoy our fresh picked sweet corn & Honeycrisp apples in season. The camping area, orchard, and sweet corn field is located next to an open pasture for our horses. If you're looking for a peaceful place to pitch a tent or park your camper...this would be it.

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Vintage Spring Lake Campground

8. Vintage Spring Lake Campground

98%

(126)

40mi from Lowden State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Spring Lake Campground was est. in 1943. This “vintage campground” has provided a place for families to relax in nature and make memories for generations. The lake is a backwater Mississippi River refuge, so there is always something to see and learn about. The Great River Bike Trail runs right through, so bring your bike! It’s a beautiful ride from the campground to nearby Savanna, IL. We rent kayaks and canoes through September here as well. (The lake closes for all boat traffic Oct 1 to provide a refuge for migrating birds during duck hunting season,. If you enjoy birding, plan a trip during October) There is so much to do in the surrounding area: hiking and climbing at Palisades State Park, restaurants, bars and shopping in Savanna, museums and more. But enjoying a peaceful time at the campground, having a bonfire, watching the sunset on the lake and seeing the stars at night is really what it’s about. True old school camping, enjoying the wildlife sanctuary. Instead of pavement, we have trees. Our best amenity is nature! Get outside, unplug and relax. *We DO allow small campers on the peninsula like teardrops and Scamps but no generators please. *We ask that our campers please arrive before dark to find their site and set up to avoid disrupting other campers. It gets really dark! We do not have street lights so people can see the stars.

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Escape to Nature

9. Escape to Nature

98%

(370)

45mi from Lowden State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Each reservation includes firewood that is rough cut. Always call ahead when you are planning to enjoy a local attraction. This property is located on the outskirts of the village of Huntley. It is only an hour west of Chicago. This is a kid-friendly and pet friendly location. Our ducks, geese, turkeys and chickens will visit you, and you'll see likely see deer, raccoon, opossum, wild turkey, sandhill cranes, falcons, hawks, woodpeckers, coyotes and cardinals, all right from your seat in the backyard. What to do here: Hike all over our six acres of wooded countryside and nearby forest preserves and conservation district parks. If relaxation is your goal, order breakfast from our menu and skip the cooking. Downtown Huntley hosts an assortment of festivals, free concerts, and celebrations throughout the year. The Farmer's Market and antique shops are worth the visit. Check out these amazing area attractions! -The Illinois Railway Museum, within 10 miles, is the largest railway museum in the United States. Enthusiasts come from all over to ride on steam, diesel, and electric trains. (http://www.IRM.org) -Tower Hills Stables, Trail Rides, Horseback Riding Camp (ages 5 to 14), Riding Lessons, just 8 miles drive, (https://www.towerhillstables.net/.) -Summerfield Farm and Zoo, a privately owned zoo in rural Belvidere, IL, 3088 Flora Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008, a 30 minute drive. (https://summerfieldfarmandzoo.com/.) -Safari Lake Geneva, 45 minute drive to the north, Visit Safari Lake Geneva, Wisconsin's original drive through animal park. Feed and interact with a variety of animals from the comfort of your car (https://safarilakegeneva.com/). Additional suggestions include Santa's Village Amusement and Water Park in West Dundee, Randall Oaks Zoo, in Dundee on Randall Road, Minor League Baseball with Schaumburg Boomers or Kane County Cougars, Anderson Japanese Gardens in Rockford, Sullivan Mobile massage, Belvidere Park in Belvidere, IL, Volo Auto Museum, Department of Natural Resources Bike and Hiking Trails and fishing. When you're ready for a faster pace, head into Chicago, where the city offers unlimited attractions, museums, and amazing restaurants. We do not have full electric and water sites available. Try the Kane County Forest Preserve for this at https://kaneforest.com/location/paul-wolff. Need more ideas of things to do in the area? Ask us! We love being your concierge! Visit our website for additional ideas. HarmonyInnHuntley.com. FAQ FAQ FAQ FAQ 🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂🙂 Here are some answers to common questions. We provide camping toilets with a privacy tent. Check in starts at 4 PM and check out ends at 11 AM. Late check out is available for purchase as an extra for $10 per hour. ELECTRIC: If you need to use electricity to inflate a mattress or something just for a few minutes, an outdoor outlet can be found on the "lower garage" building. Just look to the left of the west facing garage door. WATER: If you need to use the garden hose to fill a 5-gallon bucket or smaller, you can use the garden hose attached to the back side of the house. Please be sure to turn the water off completely when you are done. CAR BATTERY: If your car battery dies and you need a jump David will help you if he is available. Otherwise, please call a towing service, such as Whitey's Towing. WOOD: We may have rough firewood available at no charge. We recommend campers bring their own hand saw or hatchet to cut it to the desired size. You may bring your own firewood. PICNIC TABLE/PATIOS: Please do not place any cooking device on the picnic tables. You can use a large log for this. Feel free to roll one to a desired spot. You may move the picnic tables if you would like to, we provide a limited number of picnic tables. Campers are not guaranteed that one will be available. Campers may use the patios by the house, we have 2 patios with firepits. INSECTS: If you find ground wasps or bees, just relocate your camp farther away from them. We do try to address these when we are made aware of them. We recommend bringing mosquito repellent. HAMMOCKS: Hammocks are acceptable if you protect the trees from any damage. EXTRAS (after you arrive): Please bring exact cash if you want to purchase extras after you arrive. Hip Camp does not have the capability to add extras after you have made your booking. ARRIVAL TIME: Your host would appreciate a message and phone call with your arrival time so that he can greet you and get you settled upon arrival. Remember, we have an added fee for arrivals after 10 PM.

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Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

10. Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

99%

(47)

46mi from Lowden State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Local Farm. Close enough to socialize. Far enough away to matter. Next door to “‘More Polish Pottery” in Big Rock IL. Near Dekalb, Sandwich, Plano, Hinkley, Big Rock, Aurora, and Sugar Grove. Many sites, bars, shops, and places to eat. Touching Big Rock forest preserve. Features egg stand and wood sales on site for 7 a large bundle. Feel free to pull wood from the land yourself as well. Private setting. Fire pit. Multiple spots to choose from. Great views. Pet friendly. Local showers and pool at local Plano YMCA. Need to drive to get to showers and go when the facility is open. Possible to see farm animals up close and personal. Please leave them at site. 11 min or less from Raging Waves Water Park. It’s right down the road! An hour commute or less to Chicago. Open early this year Feb 19th through Sept 30th (extended due to nice weather so if you can book it. You can stay.) The end of the season this year will be on or about September 30th (but if we say open on the site after feel free to book). And then we will be closed for the winter until on or about May first (again if open you can book before this date); Unless otherwise specified. Usually closed for the winter months. Sugar Grove Family Fun Center up the road. Goat Yoga and Wholly Bean Coffee close by. Local forest preserve has toilets (within driving distance and use while open before sundown) or bring your own porti-john (I find a bucket and a garbage bag do wonders). Camp with your dogs and horses!! Animals welcome (trails at the local preserve). Set up a temp spot for them with owner permission. We have the space. There is riding at the forest preserve right around the corner and a local farm spot where you can call and pet horses. We have a swing set and small child play sets. A trampoline. A hammock. Y’all are more than welcome to use it. Just be respectful and make sure your children do not harm our land, animals, gardens, or themselves. 💕🙏 Again offering substantial fire wood bundles for 7 dollars a bundle. New egg and farm stand added this year. Two new picnic tables added. Well water available upon request for those that have travel tanks to refill (ask the owner and schedule a time to use the hose).

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RWH Farm

11. RWH Farm

100%

(15)

47mi from Lowden State Park · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging

This property is a 150 year old working farm, which has seen six generations. We are happy to share a piece of land with you. Whether you are a first time or experienced camper wanting to sleep outdoors. We have the perfect spot for you to rest, relax, and recharge while camping under the stars surrounded by trees in a four acre wooded area located on a quiet country road within a vast working farm in the heart of Jo Daviess, County. Listen to the sounds of nature white spotting a variety of wildlife. Watch the sunrises, sunsets, comets, meteor showers, sometimes the northern lights, and the full moon rising over the hills. Watch the leaves turn color in autumn. We offer three types of sites: basic Glamping, preset tent, and rustic. Check out the descriptions of the sites to see which site is for you. Limited sites - first come basis. We try to make each site as secluded as possible.. There are firewood stations throughout the sites with attached fire extinguisher. We are creating a gravel trek around the sites with two entrances and gravel parking planned be completed by 2028. We are working on flushable outhouses and possible showers. Children’s play area by 2027. There isn’t any swimming or fishing available on the farm property. There is a private lake three miles from the sites - see details under extras. We are located ten miles from the Wisconsin border and villages with their unique shops and museums. 20 minutes from Galena, 45 minutes from the Mississippi River and Dubuque. Iowa. Three hours from Chicago. DNR - department of natural resources have properties a mile north of the farm with nice trails to walk near the Apple river, which is stocked twice a year for fishing tournaments. As well as the Boy Scout campgrounds located nearby. Locals have caught crayfish and swam in the Apple river, we are unfamiliar with current spots. People have tubed and canoed down the Apple river. There are numerous state parks within driving distance for hiking, sight seeing, eagle watching etc. Immerse yourself in the vast history of the area. Again we encourage you to come rest relax and recharge in this peaceful spot.

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Rancho Comienzo

12. Rancho Comienzo

99%

(84)

47mi from Lowden State Park · 2 sites

Rancho Del Comienzo is located at the intersection of Somonauk Creek and the Fox River. 150+ years ago, it was a commonly used Native American encampment. Now it is the site of Rancho Del Comienzo Hay and Horses. We ask that if you find an arrowhead that you respect the land and leave it where it lays. Somonauk Creek is a known spawning ground of musky and other Illinois river fish. There is access to both the Fox River and Somonauk Creek for kayaking, canoeing, fishing and other water-activities! We have two unique camping sites that are level and allow campfires. We look forward to hosting you!

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Paradise Quarry

13. Paradise Quarry

95%

(55)

47mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to our beautiful property! This is a very special place, located an hour from Chicago and only minutes from the west suburbs, you will be transported to another time! This has to be the best “swimming/ fishing hole” in Chicagoland and you can have it all to yourself. The property features 20 acres of woods, prairie and an 8 acre lake!!! The lake is crystal clear because it’s so deep (reportedly 125 ft) and is sandy on the bottom. We created a massive beach area with many camping spots to choose from. The kids will love exploring the trails on foot and on bike. Everyone will love lounging under the umbrellas on the comfy chaise lounges and enjoying the views. You won’t want to leave, but if you need to restock, there a gas station 1/4 mile away and full service grocery store and restaurant under a mile away. We even get pizza delivered! There’s a nice driveway of gravel that leads to a nice open field for RV campers. Tent campers can continue to the beach and set up in style. The property was once an active quarry and was then basically abandoned for 40-50 years. Nature took over over, Trees matured, the stocked lake grew some massive fish. A few years ago we started camping out there and just loved it. We’ve worked hard to make it amazing and we want to share it with you.

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The Aloha Ranch

14. The Aloha Ranch

100%

(19)

49mi from Lowden State Park · 10 sites · Tents, RVs

We have 26 acres of land to have fun on and enjoy nature! Turtles, rabbits, deer, possums, and snakes are just a few of the wildlife that you may encounter. The Kishwaukee river runs along the property bringing a variety of creatures as well as a nice place to cool off on hot days. You can find wild berry trees and beautiful flowers. Enjoy campfires and gaze upon the vast sky full of stars at night. There are multiple camping sites, some surrounded by trees and others in open fields to suit your preference and camping vehicle. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our 26 acres surrounded by the Kishwaukee River. Small trails, secluded yet near food, shopping and activities. Pet friendly, bon fires, barbecuing, gorgeous sunrises and tranquil sunsets. We are a family run small farm with dogs, horses, ponies and chickens. Only 1 hour 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and 1 hour from Ohare airport.  Near Wisconsin border, Fox River, Lake Geneva, Rush Creek, Volo Museum & Antiques. Look up things to do in McHenry as well.

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A Creek Runs Through It

15. A Creek Runs Through It

95%

(19)

49mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

I love sharing this beautiful piece of land with other nature lovers. You feel like you're out in the middle of the woods yet if you drive 5 minutes to Randall road there's any restaurant or store you could ever need. I look forward to sharing this space with you!

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Millbrook Trail Rides

16. Millbrook Trail Rides

96%

(116)

50mi from Lowden State Park · 1 site

We are a horse farm that offers trail riding to the public. We have 50 acres of wooded land with a creek running through it. We have plenty of space and we are happy to provide you with a fun camping experience! Our campsite is private and convenient. Please be warned that a loud train goes through at night!

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The Commons Oak Savanna

17. The Commons Oak Savanna

92%

(25)

52mi from Lowden State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: (NOTE) Greenwood Rd and Illinois Rt 120 are the same...Google uses Greenwood Rd, and the State prefers Illinois Rte 120) Get away from it and commune with nature in a pre-settlement natural oak savanna with oaks and hickories of 200-400 years. 25-acre woodland completely fenced and surrounded by cropland and woods with no homes or roads within a half mile. Experience the land as the nomadic Indian tribes saw it. Trails cross the property. Hawks, owls, turkeys, and occasional bald eagles, along with finches, woodpeckers, doves, and martins that fill the sky; while deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits roam the grounds. Only two camps are available to keep the setting pristine and primitive and a third site can be used behind the farmstead facing the North-Fourty, in case you encounter unexpected weather or for rigs too large for the primative sites. Woodstock is a destination location, with its noted Victorian charm and historic square. It's the only place famous movie actor Orson Welles called home, as does the groundhog of Bill Murray movie Groundhog Day fame.

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Limestone Bluff

18. Limestone Bluff

12mi from Lowden State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

We live on 17 acres in Northern Illinois. A little over half of our property is wooded and we also have a rolling hayfield and a year-round stream that runs through the lower part of the property. There are numerous mowed hiking paths around the hay field and through the woods. The path also goes down a limestone bluff to a picnic/camping area near the Leaf River, a big name for a nice-sized creek, which crosses the property. There is abundant wildlife in the area including deer, turkeys, coyotes, herons and an ocassional bobcat. It is not unusual to see bald eagles or red tailed hawks flying by and at night it is common to hear owls and coyotes. We have numerous campsites available. Some can be driven to and some are best to hike to unless you have 4-wheel drive and are not afraid of a few potential scrapes and scratches from branches near the path. As with any wooded/grass land property, depending on weather conditions bugs can be an issue including mosquitos, ticks and biting gnats. Bug spray is sometimes helpful to fully enjoy the outdoors. Safety is very important especially if children are present. The limestone bluff can be a fall hazard, the banks along the creek can give way, there is poison ivy in the woods and, of course, fire pits are a burn hazard. We maintain trails to help minimize the hazards but common sense behavior and supervision of children will help ensure a good time will be had by all. There is a nice shallow area of the creek for children, and adults, to play in, but water shoes are recommended. Be aware of the possibility of leaches, as well. We also ask, for the preservation of the beauty of the area, that there be no climbing on the limestone bluffs. We have a dog, named Poppy, who has free run of our property. She will likely bark but she is not aggressive. It's best to simply ignore her but please don't feed her. If she's a problem, please message me and we'll bring her to the house. We also have 3 barn cats who may wander down. If they bother you, just clap at them to chase them away. Again, let me know if they're a problem.

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Autumn Hill (Under Construction)

19. Autumn Hill (Under Construction)

22mi from Lowden State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Please forgive the roughness of the property. It's a foreclosure that is being rehabilitated. Come back and see the progress. A little video showing some of what Rockford has to offer: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1460816965783215 We are outside of Rockford near Lockwood Park and an easy drive to the east side of town. The BMX race track is at Searls Park just 4 minutes from my place. Bike routes that go to or around the city and others that also connect to Wisconsin and Iowa routes are nearby—a great place to camp during the Ironman race during the summertime. Go hiking with the goats in Pecatonica; 15 minutes to Anderson Gardens and the downtown Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens at Sinnisippi Park, and the Klehm Arboretum is about 12 minutes away. Currently under rehabilitation and not fancy yet; rustic and farm-like. The RV spots are located in a field and wooded area, without a concrete or gravel pad. Plenty of available firewood. I've been cutting down trees to make more usable space on the property. I’m in the middle of rehabbing the house, outbuildings, and landscaping the 2 acres. Shade spots are available away from the house. Must be self-sustainable. Not a paved path nor a landing, but it is mowed grass. A tree line and forestry path around the back of the property. It makes a nice walking path. The property goes back much further than the photos show, and I’ve widened the path. Lots of birds to greet you in the morning, and at night, crickets will sing you to sleep. I’m off a main four-lane road with a long driveway with ample room to drive to the back of the property. I’ll navigate you around the septic area when you get here. No guests or alcohol consumption without prior authorization. This is a quiet, relaxed family property. A few helpful links to local attractions: https://andersongardens.org/ Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens https://nicholasconservatory.com/ Klehm Arboretum https://klehm.org/ Lockwood Park https://www.facebook.com/LockwoodParkRockfordParkDistrict/ Searls Park https://rockfordparkdistrict.org/searls-park Burpee Museum of Natural History https://burpee.org/ Discovery Center Museum https://discoverycentermuseum.org/ For things to eat, see, and do while in Rockford go the the website https://www.gorockford.com/

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Brown Rusk Ranch

20. Brown Rusk Ranch

100%

(9)

23mi from Lowden State Park · 3 sites

We have 5 acres with 112 trees. 3 pasture where people may camp. Dry camping with self contained RVs under 30 ft. We have an outhouse for tent campers. Water is available and have a huge fire pit area. Sheep goats and a cat. Numerous parks for hiking. Rockford is only 15 miles and Winnebago is 6 miles for any supplies. We have a car cottage that looks like the 50s diner. On a busy road but quiet at night. Many whimsical additions to our little ranch!

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

ryan

1 day ago

Tent

2 nights at Escape to Nature

Relaxing site, friendly host, fun birds to visit with and ample firewood!

Heather

2 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

This beautiful Hipcamp exceeded our expectations! It was beautiful and peaceful and David was an amazing host. We stayed for 3 nights and didn’t want to leave! We will definitely be staying here again… 5 out of 5 stars!!!

Joseph

6 days ago

Tent

2 nights at Escape to Nature

**5/5 Stars – Outstanding Solitude and Hospitality!** We had an incredible stay and literally had the entire campgrounds to ourselves. The scenery and level of privacy were absolutely great. Our host, Dave, was fantastic and even provided excellent firewood for our stay. It feels like you are far away enough from civilization, yet it is incredibly convenient, only 10 minutes away from a Walmart if you need to grab last-minute supplies.

Carlita

1 week ago

16 ft car

With pets

4 nights at Escape to Nature

David was wonderful! The property was wonderful. I will definitely be back!

Elizabeth

1 week ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

We spent two wonderful nights primitive camping on Sarah and her family’s beautiful property. Sarah was a great host, welcoming, helpful, and friendly. The property is peaceful and a perfect alternative to crowded campgrounds if you want to truly enjoy nature and privacy. We loved our stay and would definitely come back again!

Lucas

1 week ago

15 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

Everything was so amazing. Super hospitable and always making sure we were good! Amazing spot and the off roading was very fun! We will be coming back in the near future.

Jean

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Escape to Nature

We arrived after dark, we had informed the host of our late arrival & they couldn't have been more gracious. It was dark but we could still see how lovely the grounds were. We were escorted to our camping spot, it waa clean & orderly. There were no lights or neighbors which we really liked! We had a good nites rest & left at 3:30am to avoid Chicago traffic

Tiffany

2 weeks ago

12 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Absolutely loved it here! Hosts are amazing! Super private! We will definitely be back! Fishing in the creek with the kiddos was a ton of fun caught a ton of fish. The horses are so sweet and their dog is awesome!

Cheryl

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Foley's 4x4 Timber Trail Camping

The Foley family is extremely helpful, they welcome all. The trails well let me say you dont be disappointed. The amount of work and effort they put into creating a huge play land for your off road vehicle is by far superior. Oh and be sure to say hi to Dale (Emu) and Pretty boy (Turkey). Highly recommend visiting Foleys.

Cassidy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

So lovely - watched the sunset over a field while listening to birdsong. I will say, only one of the three other sites was in use, so it felt pretty private, but you would be right near other campers if all are booked. But for me, was perfect for an easy night away from the city.

Reptile

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Paradise Quarry

Paradise Quarry is quite a little slice of paradise! My friend and I had so much fun kicking back and relaxing. The gate was a little tricky at first but the both of us were able to open it together. I can't wait to come back! We also brought two dogs and they had so much fun.

Giles

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

Beautiful space! Very peaceful. Hosts are very welcoming and amenities are great! Easy to find and quick off the highway

Big rock forest preserve right around the corner. Hiking trails. Allows horses! I’ll allow horses on the farm. Ask me on advance to set something up. Camp with your horses!

Judah

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Daisy’s Farms On Notalotta Acers

Very pretty and peaceful. Campground was easy to find and Kimberly was communicative and helpful.

Georgia

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Beautiful spot! The wildflowers were amazing and there was firewood available.

Andrew

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Great spot to get away to. The site was private, which was perfect for me and my dogs, and nice for adventuring to the creek. I also appreciated the firewood provided and welcoming host.

Daniel

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Papa's Park

Lovely and peaceful spot to camp for the night. Brian was also incredibly nice and very helpful. We’ll definitely come back and stay again. Highly recommend.

Joe

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Crooked Creek Ranch

Perfect place to stay. We were just passing through so spent the night Sandra was very helpful. Very nice private area very quiet would be a nice place to stay for a couple of days.

Andrea

May 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Papa's Park

This was a lovely spot to stay. We were there right as the apple trees were blooming. We loved the tire swing and the open grass where we played frisbee. The site was well maintained, private, quiet, and picturesque. Brian was kind and welcoming. Would absolutely recommend. Thank you for the great stay!

Jonathan

May 2026

20 ft truck camper

Weekend Trip to Crooked Creek Ranch

Very friendly host. Very very quiet place. I believe I had the place to myself which just proved how private it actually is. I was greeted by the host’s husband when I got there, and he brought me a lot of firewood for the night. Sandra stopped by and checked on me to make sure I had found my campsite and asked if I needed anything . Once again, I think I camped for free and got a really good deal on firewood. Lol you should definitely check this place out..

Qasim

May 2026

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Escape to Nature

It was a very clean and peaceful environment, and very safe. David was a very polite host and there was no trouble at all during our stay. I highly recommend it, and will definitely go again.

Lowden State Park camping guide

Overview

About

Start with a hike to the top of Eagle's Nest Bluff. That's where a 50-foot statue, called The Eternal Indian or the Black Hawk Statue, watches over the park.

Sculptor Lorado Taft wanted it to appear as if Chief Black Hawk was coming out of the ground. View the Rock River and the surrounding hillsides from this vantage point.

Explore verdant hiking trails through the rest of the park. Tall trees and thick underbrush create layers of green from top to bottom. Birds and small mammals love this place. Carry some binoculars to see these creatures up close.

Launch your boat just across the river. Summertime depths of the Rock River average 3 feet, which makes for a gentle float trip. Catch several game fish, including bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, pike, and walleye. Then, relax at your campsite after a long day and cook the dinner you just landed.

The park's campground has 80 sites with electricity and 38 ordinary sites. Check out the cabin and eight rustic/wilderness spots.